Col. John Ashley built the house in 1735 at the age of 25 for his Dutch bride, Hannah Hogeboom. The Ashley House was the center of social, economic and political life in Western Massachusetts in the 18th century.

The famous Sheffield Resolves, a petition against British tyranny and a manifesto for individual rights, was drafted in the upstairs study of the house and published in 1773.

Ashley accumulated wealth and land, and by the time of his death in 1802, he owned more than 3,000 acres. His financial success was based in part on the labor of five enslaved African Americans.

Inspired by Revolutionary-era rhetoric and her own desire for freedom, Elizabeth “Mumbett” Freeman, who was enslaved in the Ashley House, helped end slavery in Massachusetts. In 1781, she sued Ashley for her freedom and won.

The Trustees transformed an old garage on the grounds of the Ashley House into a new interpretive center, which focuses on the life of Freeman and the themes of slavery, freedom and legacy. It features a comprehensive exhibit on the life and legacy of Freeman and provides a space for visitors to contemplate the history of slavery in Massachusetts.

There is also a tour that incorporates new research about Freeman and other enslaved members of the household. “It gives an interesting perspective having to do with gender, race and economic perspectives,” said Kate E. Preissler, engagement manager for the trustees.